Lemon Creek is a tidal creek on Staten Island's south shore that opens into Raritan Bay, edged by salt marsh and one of the few purple martin colonies in the city. Paddling it with the Urban Park Rangers gets you into water most New Yorkers do not know exists, with herons and egrets working the marsh a paddle-length away. The intermediate session assumes you have been in a boat before, which means it goes further than the beginner loops.
What to expect
Expect a launch from the fishing pier, canoes and paddles supplied by NYC Parks, a safety briefing and rangers leading the route through the creek and its marsh edges. You will get wet, so plan clothing accordingly. The session is intermediate, so basic paddling competence and comfort on open water are assumed.
Good to know
- Lemon Creek Park is on Staten Island's south shore; the Staten Island Railway to Prince's Bay is the closest stop.
- Free, but Urban Park Rangers boating programmes require advance registration and fill fast.
- Wear quick-drying clothes and shoes you can get wet.
- Bring sun protection and water — there is no shade on the creek.
- Aimed at people with prior paddling experience, not complete beginners.
- Rangers supply boats, paddles and life jackets.
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Common questions
Do I need my own canoe?
No — NYC Parks supplies canoes, paddles and life jackets.
Is it beginner-friendly?
This session is listed as intermediate, so some prior paddling experience is expected.
Where does it launch?
From the fishing pier at Lemon Creek Park on Staten Island's south shore.
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